Pass Protection

What is Pass Protection?

An arrangement of offensive players with the intent of keeping
the defense from getting to the quarterback, therefore allowing him
the time to complete an accurate pass downfield. Pass protection is
usually comprised of the five offensive linemen, but may also
include tight ends or running backs in certain
situations.

Sporting Charts explains Pass Protection

Pass protection is an essential component in any passing play.
In most situations, an effective pass protection scheme is to
create a "pocket" around the quarterback, with the various pass
protectors blocking defenders out and away from the pocket. Pass
protection becomes more difficult the longer it must be maintained,
as the defense has time to make a series of different moves to
elude the blockers. The offensive linemen are the primary pass
blockers, but teams that are having difficulty creating effective
protection may choose to keep a running back or tight end back with
the linemen. This can help the offensive line block a standard pass
rush, but can also help guard against a blitz of extra pass
rushers. Teams that have excellent pass protection will tend to be
much better at passing plays.